Chapter 3: Explaining tragic world events

Introduction

When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, 'Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.' To this day, especially in times of disaster, I remember my mother’s words, and I am always comforted by realizing that there are still so many helpers — so many caring people in this world.

— Mr. Rogers, children’s TV personality

For better or worse, children learn about death not only through the death of flies and pets and family losses. The media exposes them to natural disasters and acts of violence and terrorism. This chapter looks at how to discuss these events with your children.